City Council — October 6, 2026

Biodiversity Conservation Resolution

• Council Member Kasdan requested the item be pulled from the consent calendar for further discussion.
• Five speakers supported the resolution, citing alignment with the "30 by 30" initiative and regional conservation efforts.
• The item was ultimately approved as part of the consent calendar vote.

Goleta Train Depot Project

• Council Member Kasdan requested the item be pulled from the consent calendar to review final budget details.
• Staff explained the item includes a utility easement dedication and a $350,000 appropriation for remaining utility connections.
• The total project cost is estimated at $32.3 million, with construction expected to finish before the end of the calendar year.
• The item was approved as part of the consent calendar vote.

SBCAG 60th Anniversary Proclamation

• Mayor Pro Tempore Smith presented a proclamation commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments.
• SBCAG representatives highlighted contributions to regional transportation projects, including Project Connect and the Goleta train station.
• The council accepted the proclamation.

Ranch Days Proclamation

• A proclamation was presented recognizing the week of September 28 through October 4, 2026, as Ranch Days.
• The recognition honors the Goleta Valley Historical Society’s educational program for third graders.
• The council accepted the proclamation.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation

• Council Member Kasdan presented a proclamation designating October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.
• Representatives from Domestic Violence Solutions and Legal Aid Foundation discussed their support services for survivors.
• The council accepted the proclamation.

Saigon Noodle House Business Recognition Award

• Council Member Kuriakow presented the City Business Recognition Award to Saigon Noodle House and owner Nancy Phan.
• The award recognizes the business for more than 20 years of contribution to the Goleta community.
• The owner noted that three generations of her family are involved in the business's operation.

Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3CREN) Annual Update

• Staff presented an update on 3CREN’s energy efficiency programs, distinguishing the organization from Central Coast Community Energy.
• The report detailed 2025 performance in Goleta, noting a decrease in single-family home services and no completed multifamily projects.
• Staff outlined ongoing efforts in commercial energy savings, training, and technical assistance for local businesses and agencies.
• No motions were made or voted upon during this informational segment.

Winter Weather City Preparedness

• Staff presented a comprehensive update on preparations for the upcoming winter season, citing a high likelihood of a strong El Niño pattern.
• Public Works reported on drainage maintenance and long-term projects, including improvements to the San Jose Creek Channel.
• General Services detailed facility maintenance efforts, including urgent roof repairs for the Goleta Community Center and the Historic Train Depot.
• Emergency Services and Neighborhood Services outlined plans for public messaging, shelter coordination, and homelessness outreach during storms.

Goleta Community Center Strategic Plan

• Staff presented a status report on the Goleta Community Center’s operations since the City assumed management in 2023.
• The report highlighted growth in senior services, facility usage, and capital improvements such as seismic retrofitting.
• Staff requested authorization for the Neighborhood Services Department to retain ongoing management of the facility.
• The council voted unanimously to authorize the continued management and operation of the Goleta Community Center by the City.

Homeless Issues Committee Report

• The Mayor summarized the October 1st committee meeting, noting an increase in vehicle dwellers and an overall rise in the homeless population.
• Data indicated that a large majority of the homeless population is 55 or older, while veteran homelessness in Goleta has been ended.
• The committee discussed the vehicle ordinance regarding overnight camping and safe parking incentives, noting current efforts are not yielding expected results.

Council Member Reports

• Council members reported on attendance at the Cal Cities conference, the Lemon Festival, and the Economic Development Committee.
• Mayor Pro Tempore Smith provided an update on the "Beach Smart" project, which evaluates potential sites for beach replenishment using creek sediment.
• Members reminded attendees of the upcoming "Walk and Roll to School" event and the associated increase in pedestrian and cyclist activity.

Closed Session

• A report from the closed session held at 4:30 PM was presented.
• No reportable action was taken during that session.

Meeting Opening and Roll Call

• The Goleta City Council meeting for October 6, 2026, was called to order by Mayor Pro Tempore Jennifer Smith. Roll call confirmed the presence of Council Members Reyes-Martin, Kuriakow, and Kasdan, Mayor Pro Tempore Smith, and Mayor Parodi. A Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and Spanish interpretation services were noted as available.

Closed Session Report

• A report from the closed session held at 4:30 PM was presented. No reportable action was taken during that session.

Public Forum

• Five speakers addressed the council on non-agenda items:
• Dan O and Bethany Southern-Sakota (Gilead Education Foundation): Expressed gratitude for the city’s partnership in the Lemon Run, noting the event raised $65,000 for local elementary school programs, including STEAM initiatives, dual language immersion, and heat wave relief supplies.
• Carter Morgan: Opposed the proposed development at Covington and Los Carneros, citing incompatibility with the neighborhood, safety concerns regarding cyclists and pedestrians, and traffic issues. He referenced the Planning Commission’s 3-1 denial of the project in August.
• Wendy Morgan: Opposed the same proposed development, arguing it would create dangerous congestion, block emergency vehicles, and negatively impact community access to the Stowe House and Lake Los Carneros.
• Will Bremen: Opposed the Anthem Chapel building project, stating that actual congregation attendance is higher than reported estimates and that the proposed parking and traffic plans are inadequate for the intended growth.
• Kyle Richards: Suggested aesthetic improvements for the 101 underpass in Old Town, such as murals or light installations, and proposed repurposing the grassy area in front of the community center into an open plaza or sculpture garden.

Staff Report

• Deputy City Manager Plummer, acting for City Manager Robert Nisbet, presented a video from the Goleta Lemon Festival and thanked staff and volunteers for their participation.

Consent Calendar

• The following items were presented for approval:
• A1: Approval of the City Council Meeting Minutes of September 15, 2026.
• A2: Acceptance of the August 2026 Check Register.
• A3: Acceptance of the August 2026 Investment Transaction Report.
• A4: Resolution Supporting Biodiversity Conservation.
• A5: Goleta Train Depot Project Utility Easement Dedication to the Goleta Water District and Budget Appropriation.

Discussion and Action on Consent Items

• Item A4 (Biodiversity Conservation): Council Member Kasdan requested that this item be pulled from the consent calendar for further discussion. Five speakers addressed the council in support of the resolution:
• Stephanie Diaz (Land Trust for Santa Barbara County): Supported the resolution, highlighting the organization’s role in preserving land and its partnership with the Biodiversity Working Group.
• Lane Boutani Goddard (Santa Barbara Botanic Garden): Supported the resolution, emphasizing the importance of native plant diversity for ecosystem resilience.
• Helene Schneider (Biodiversity Working Group): Supported the resolution, noting the alignment with other South Coast cities and the "30 by 30" initiative to protect 30% of state lands and waters by 2030.
• Carlo Macno (Los Padres Forest Watch): Supported the resolution, citing the region’s status as a biodiversity hotspot and the importance of protecting wildlife corridors.
• Candace Mennegan (Coastal Ranchers Conservancy): Supported the resolution, highlighting the organization’s focus on conservation along the Gaviota coast and the need for continued leadership to meet conservation targets.
• Item A5 (Goleta Train Depot): Council Member Kasdan requested that this item be pulled from the consent calendar. Council Member Kasdan asked staff for a brief update on the final budget items. Deputy City Manager Plummer explained that the item includes a utility easement dedication to the Goleta Water District and a budget appropriation of $350,000 to cover remaining costs, primarily for utility connections (Goleta Water District and Southern California Edison). The total project cost is estimated at approximately $32.3 million. Construction is expected to be completed before the end of the calendar year. No public speakers addressed this item.

Vote on Consent Calendar

• A motion was made to approve items A1 through A5. The motion was seconded. The vote was unanimous, and the items were approved.

Presentations

Item B1: Proclamation Honoring 60 Years of Regional Partnership through the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG)

• Presentation: Mayor Pro Tempore Smith presented a proclamation commemorating the 60th anniversary of SBCAG, highlighting its role in regional collaboration, transportation funding (Measures D and A), and shared solutions.
• Remarks: Lauren Bianchi-Clemmon from SBCAG thanked the council for the recognition. She discussed SBCAG’s contributions to local projects, including Project Connect and the Goleta train station, and mentioned ongoing efforts to improve Highway 101 and plan for future transportation in the Goleta Valley.
• Public Comment: Kyle Richards thanked SBCAG staff for their work on Project Connect and the train station, expressing excitement about future transportation improvements.
• Outcome: The proclamation was accepted.

Item B2: Proclamation Recognizing Ranch Days

• Presentation: A proclamation was presented recognizing the week of September 28 through October 4, 2026, as Ranch Days in the City of Goleta, honoring the Goleta Valley Historical Society’s program for third graders.
• Remarks: A representative from the Goleta Valley Historical Society thanked the council for the recognition, noting the program’s long history and volunteer support.
• Outcome: The proclamation was accepted.

Item B3: Proclamation Proclaiming October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month

• Presentation: Council Member Kasdan presented a proclamation designating October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, aligning with the national theme "With Survivors Always."
• Remarks:
• Clara Holm (Domestic Violence Solutions): Thanked the council for the recognition and discussed the organization’s support for survivors, including crisis line services and long-term advocacy.
• Gabriela Tellez (Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County): Thanked the council and discussed the organization’s role in providing legal representation to survivors of domestic violence to obtain protective orders and address housing and custody issues.
• Outcome: The proclamation was accepted.

Item B4: Saigon Noodle House Business Recognition Award

• Presentation: Council Member Kuriakow presented the City Business Recognition Award to Saigon Noodle House and owner Nancy Phan, recognizing the business for its more than 20 years of contribution to the Goleta community.
• Remarks: Nancy Phan thanked the council and community, noting that the business was founded by her uncle and built by her father, and that three generations are involved in its operation.
• Outcome: The award was presented.

Item B5: Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3CREN) Annual Update

• Presentation: Garrett Wong, Co-Director of 3CREN and staff member of the County of Santa Barbara, began the annual update presentation. He clarified that 3CREN is a regional energy network consisting of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties, utilizing ratepayer dollars collected by the Public Utilities Commission to implement energy efficiency programs. He distinguished 3CREN from Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), noting that while they are separate entities, they partner to maximize benefits for customers. The presentation was interrupted by technical difficulties with the slides.
• Discussion: A representative from the Regional Energy Network presented the organization’s growth since its establishment in 2018, noting the expansion from three initial programs to six, including new offerings for commercial energy savings, agricultural solutions, and energy assurance services. The presentation distinguished between territory-wide activities across three counties and specific outcomes in Goleta.
• Program Categories: The organization categorizes its services into incentives (financial benefits), training (for building and trades professionals), and technical assistance (guidance on navigating operational issues and accessing existing financing).
• 2025 Performance in Goleta:
• Single-Family Homes: Service decreased from 11 households in 2024 to three households in 2025. The representative attributed this to changes in incentives, contractor availability, and the contractor-driven nature of program uptake.
• Multifamily Housing: No projects were completed in 2025, compared to one project serving 168 units in 2024. Approximately four projects involving over 200 units are currently in the pipeline, with completion expected by the end of 2027.
• Commercial Energy Savings: This program launched in 2024; in 2025, it served four businesses, all classified as "hard-to-reach" customers per Public Utilities Commission criteria.
• Training and Code Compliance: The organization reported active participation in free training events and workshops for the local building industry. The Energy Code Connect program provides technical assistance to planners, officials, architects, and engineers to ensure compliance with energy codes that change every three years.
• Technical Assistance: Services were provided for Energy Assurance (targeting public agencies and nonprofits for resilience) and Agricultural Energy Solutions.
• Collaboration: The representative stated that the organization works closely with city staff to share promotional materials and program updates to facilitate connections with residents and businesses.
• Action/Decision: No motions were made, seconded, or voted upon during this segment. The Mayor thanked the presenter, and the item was closed.

Agenda Item C1: Winter Weather City Preparedness Presentation

• Discussion: Staff from Neighborhood Services, Emergency Services, General Services, and Public Works presented a comprehensive update on preparations for the upcoming winter season, citing a strong El Niño pattern with a greater than 90% likelihood of continuing through the winter. Staff clarified that El Niño is a seasonal climate backdrop indicating increased risk for a wet winter, rather than a specific storm event.
• Public Works:
• Drainage and Pavement: Crews cleaned approximately 120 storm drain inlets, inspected vegetation at major inlets, and performed crack sealing and grind-and-pave work to prevent water intrusion. The city’s drainage infrastructure is generally designed to accommodate 10-year to 25-year storm events. Staff noted that localized flooding can occur when systems reach design capacity, particularly when influenced by high tides, even if drains are clear.
• Long-term Projects: Work is ongoing on the Storm Drain Master Plan to model the entire city’s hydraulics and prioritize long-term capital improvement projects. Recent improvements to the San Jose Creek Channel and bridge replacements are expected to allow for 100-year containment of storm runoff in that area.
• Public Resources: Sandbags are available at Fire Stations 11 and 14.
• General Services:
• Facility Maintenance: Staff inspected and sealed roofs, cleared gutters, and purchased tarps and sump pumps for various facilities, including the Goleta Community Center, Stowe House, and the Historic Train Depot.
• Goleta Community Center: The main building roof was replaced during a seismic retrofit, but the classroom wings require urgent roof replacement, which is currently unfunded. A $2 million state budget allocation was received to replace the aging portable classrooms on the West Campus and fund associated utility work.
• Historic Train Depot: The structure sustained significant water damage last year due to its lack of a built-up foundation and decorative-only gutters. Staff ordered 1,000 sandbags to armor the building, covered the platform with plastic sheeting, and engaged a structural engineer to evaluate the substructure for occupancy safety. The building will be closed and fenced off for the rainy season pending the engineer’s evaluation.
• Other Facilities: Roofing and sealing work was performed on the Mission Leasing condos (acquired for Project Connect) and the Stilgrove Park Ranger House.
• Emergency Services:
• Planning and Training: Staff conducted an emergency operations plan exercise simulating a winter storm and are finalizing continuity of operations plans for each department.
• Public Messaging: The division is preparing bilingual (English and Spanish) communications regarding preparedness, including reminders to avoid flooded areas ("Turn Around, Don't Drown") and resources for signing up for alerts.
• Coordination: The city maintains regular contact with the National Weather Service, county colleagues, and neighboring jurisdictions.
• Neighborhood Services:
• Library and Parks: The Library Division plans to relocate outdoor activities indoors during severe weather. Parks and Recreation is conducting a photo inventory of all facilities and playgrounds to aid in future disaster recovery efforts.
• Homelessness Services: Staff will increase communication frequency with service providers during storms to monitor shelter availability, including emergency beds and warming centers. Outreach teams will be deployed to warn individuals in flood-prone areas.
• Q&A Highlights:
• Stormwater Capacity: Staff confirmed that a 25-year design standard for underground systems is common in California.
• Pavement Maintenance: Staff explained that water intrusion is a primary cause of pavement damage and that summer maintenance (sealing, patching) is preventative.
• Shelter Capacity: Staff noted that while dedicated Goleta shelter beds are full, emergency beds and warming centers (often at churches or other facilities outside city limits) may open during severe weather. Staff committed to monitoring these resources.
• Old Town Drainage: Staff confirmed that new roundabouts in Old Town discharge into the San Jose Creek Channel, which has been improved to handle 100-year storm runoff.
• Facility Funding: The General Services Director stated that the city faces a significant maintenance backlog, estimating a need of $2.8 million annually to bring historic facilities up to safe, usable condition. Funding has historically relied on state/federal grants and appropriations.
• Reporting Hazards: Staff advised the public to use City Assist for non-emergency reports (downed trees, etc.), noting that a photo and address are helpful. For immediate dangers (trees on power lines or blocking major roadways), the public should call 911.
• Staff Continuity: The city has established agreements with local hotels to house staff if major road closures (e.g., Highway 101) prevent them from commuting home during a storm.
• Continuation Discussion: Council members discussed the ongoing challenges of weather forecasting accuracy and the importance of preparedness. Questions were raised regarding the division of responsibility for creek maintenance between the City of Goleta, the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District, and private property owners. Staff clarified that responsibility varies by location and that the City works closely with partner agencies, including the school district and UCSB, to address flooding issues.
• Action/Decision: No motions were made, seconded, or voted upon during this segment. The presentation concluded with staff taking questions from the Council.

Agenda Item C2: Goleta Community Center Strategic Plan Progress and Recommendation to Retain Ongoing Management

• Presentation: Staff presented a status report on the Goleta Community Center (GCC) since the City assumed management on January 1, 2023. Key points included:
• Strategic Plan Alignment: The facility’s operations align with five main goals, including creating a welcoming space, maintaining efficient operations, meeting community needs, engaging the community, and achieving financial stability.
• Programs and Services: Significant growth in senior services, including a daily nutrition program (~1,200 meals/year), a new senior lounge with ~230 members, and expanded recreation opportunities such as pickleball (~3,500 playable hours/month), yoga, and tai chi.
• Facility Usage: The GCC hosted ~2,225 paid rental hours and ~1,100 hours of city-sponsored events in the last fiscal year. It serves as a hub for non-profits, city programs, and community gatherings.
• Financials and Infrastructure: The City has reinvested in the facility through capital improvement projects, including seismic retrofitting, ADA compliance, and electrical upgrades. Staff noted that full operational capacity is currently limited by ongoing construction projects.
• Recommendation: Staff requested authorization for the City’s Neighborhood Services Department (specifically the Parks and Recreation Division) to retain ongoing management of the GCC.
• Discussion:
• Management History: Council members inquired about the history of management transitions. Staff confirmed that the City assumed management after the Goleta Valley Community Center Organization (GVCCO) operated the facility as a tenant. An RFP for senior operations was issued in 2023 with no responses, leading to the hiring of a part-time position. Staff noted that the GVCCO has indicated plans to disband by the end of the current calendar year.
• GVCCO Funds: Council members asked about the disposition of funds held by the GVCCO. Staff reported that the organization intends to distribute these funds to other non-profits upon dissolution, rather than returning them to the City or the GCC. Staff stated they have asked the organization to reconsider but noted the organization believes this complies with their bylaws and legal counsel’s advice.
• Performance Measures: Staff explained that key performance indicators (KPIs) are tied to the completion of the ADA project, which is currently pending. Some improvements, such as electrical upgrades and security enhancements, are dependent on these capital projects.
• Pickleball Court Conditions: A public comment raised concerns about the condition of the pickleball courts, including a fallen fence, dirty surfaces, and lack of maintenance. Staff responded by explaining:
• Surface Issues: Bubbling in the court surface is attributed to moisture issues. Staff cannot squeegee the courts without damaging the surface and must wait for them to dry. A complete resurfacing project was previously denied in the short-term Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and is now in the long-term CIP.
• Fence Issues: The fallen fence is part of a larger issue involving thin-grade metal and shallow post depth. Staff is assessing whether all fences need replacement or if a retrofit is possible.
• Maintenance: Staff committed to blowing off the courts and assessing cleaning needs. They noted a lack of nearby water spigots for washing but will investigate options.
• Future Improvements: An upcoming project includes adding a slit drain, a supply shed for volunteer equipment, ADA-accessible routes, and potentially awnings to improve the area around the courts.
• Community Engagement: Staff discussed efforts to improve outreach for senior programs, including press releases, word of mouth, and partnerships with the library. They also mentioned ongoing efforts to find instructors for low-cost classes requested by seniors.
• Motion and Vote:
• Motion: A motion was made to authorize the continued management and operation of the Goleta Community Center by the City’s Neighborhood Services Department as the ongoing operating model, subject to City Council budget appropriations.
• Vote Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Council Comments and Standing Committee Reports

• Homeless Issues Committee: The Mayor provided a summary of the October 1st committee meeting. Key points included:
• An increase in vehicle dwellers.
• Data from June 1 to August 31 showing some improvement in housing placements but an overall increase in the homeless population.
• Demographics indicating a large majority of the population is 55 or older.
• Veteran homelessness in Goleta has been ended.
• Discussion on the vehicle ordinance regarding overnight camping and safe parking incentives, noting that current efforts are not yielding the expected results.
• Mention of the "RAP Team" (boots on the ground) meeting every Monday, with Council members coordinating via phone/text to comply with the Brown Act.
• Member Reports:
• Unidentified Speaker 16: Reported attendance at the Cal Cities conference, noting participation in an El Niño weather preparedness session and a session hosted by Councilmember Kiriakou and the City Manager. Additionally, reported participation in the Lemon Festival and the Economic Development Subcommittee’s initial discussion regarding annual work plan priorities and budget allocation, with a subsequent meeting scheduled for the following one to two weeks.
• Carter Morgan: Reported personal milestones and attendance at various community events, including the Mexican Independence Day celebration, Beacon, the Lemon Run, and the Lemon Festival. Reported attending the Economic Development Committee meeting with Councilmember Reyes-Martin. Reported attending the Cal Cities Conference with Councilmember Reyes-Martin, where a presentation was delivered regarding downtown safety and vitality initiatives aligned with general plan goals. Reported attending the LAFCO meeting and supporting the local fund for Santa Barbara folks and Bread and Roses.
• Jennifer Smith (Mayor Pro Tem): Reported attending a September 30 meeting at Haskell’s Beach hosted by County Flood Control regarding the "Beach Smart" project. The project involves evaluating approximately 11 potential sites, including Haskell’s Beach and Goleta Beach, for beach replenishment using sand and sediment removed from creek areas for flood control purposes. Noted that the project is in early stages and involves sensitive environmental factors.
• Unidentified Speaker 19: Noted that a virtual meeting regarding the "Beach Smart" project is scheduled for the following evening and is open to the public.
• Jennifer Smith (Mayor Pro Tem): Reminded attendees of the upcoming "Walk and Roll to School" event (formerly Bow Wow Wednesday), noting increased pedestrian and cyclist activity on roads and the absence of cars in school parking lots.

City Attorney Report

• Isaac Rosen (City Attorney): Stated there were no items to report.

Adjournment

• Jennifer Smith (Mayor Pro Tem): Announced the adjournment of the meeting.